Kerala is one of the smallest states
in the Indian union. Its area 38.855 square kilometers
is just 1.3 percent of the total area of India.
The land of India comprises the narrow coastal strip
bounded by the Western Ghats n the east and the
Arabian Sea on the west. In the words of Sreedhara
Menon “Its unique geographical position and peculiar
physical features have invested Kerala with a distinct
individuality.” Hence it has played a vital role
in the commercial and cultural history of India.
Kerala has been describes “as the favorite child
of nature.” Like Kashmir in the north, Kerala in
the south is famous for its breath-taking natural
beauty.

With its evergreen mountains, dense
forests stately palms, swift flowing rivers, extensive
backwaters and blue lagoons, it looks like a fairyland.
This atmosphere of beauty and peace has nurtured
religion and art in Kerala and enabled her to become
a precious gem in the necklace of Indian culture.
Indian poets of eminence have showered their praises
for the abundance of its peppers, the fragrance
of its sandal and the wealth of its coconuts. No
part of India is so widely known or has played so
important a part in world history as Kerala.